Anal Fissures vs. Hemorrhoids: Knowing the Difference for Better Treatment
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your anal region, you might be worrying about what is going on. Two of the most common condition are anal fissure and hemorrhoids. In this article, we cover the causes, symptoms, and treatments of both anal fissures vs hemorrhoids. But with said it is important to seek treatment and rule out any other possible conditions.
Anal Fissures Versus Hemorrhoids
These two conditions are often confused with each other. Understanding their differences can help you to manage the condition after the correct diagnosis form your health practitioner.
What Are Anal Fissures?
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. This tear can cause pain and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Fissures are often caused by:
- Hard or large stools
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Aging, as the skin becomes more fragile
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids are caused by:
They may be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus)Hemorrhoids are a very common medical ailment that affect both men and women. A hemorrhoid is an enlarged or swollen anal vein.
Similar to that of hemorrhoids anal fissures develop due to poor bathroom habits, such as straining or sitting on the toilet for long periods of time.
Another sign of hemorrhoids is bright red blood when you wipe after a bowel movement.
Generally internal hemorrhoids, are not as painful and they are higher up in the anus. However when internal hemorrhoids prolapses, or drops outside of the anus it becomes what is know as an external hemorrhoid. These can be extremely painful and potentially problematic.
- Pressure in the lower rectum (e.g., due to straining, pregnancy, or obesity)
- Aging, thinning of the skin and irregular bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Symptoms and Signs
While both conditions involve pain and discomfort in the anal area, their symptoms differ in some ways:
- Pain: Anal fissures typically cause sharp, severe pain during a bowel movement. While Hemorrhoids, can cause mild to moderate pain, and typically cause itching or irritation.
- Bleeding: Both conditions can cause bleeding, but the blood from anal fissures is typically bright red and seen on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Hemorrhoids may also produce bright red blood, but it’s often mixed with stool or seen as streaks on the toilet paper.
- Location: Anal fissures are always located at the anal opening, while hemorrhoids can be found inside the rectum or around the anus.
Treatment: Anal Fissures vs. Hemorrhoids
The treatment for these conditions will vary depending on their severity and the underlying causes. However, there are some general guidelines for both:
- Lifestyle changes: Increase fiber intake, stay hydrated, and avoid straining during bowel movements. As well as get enough rest and exercise. All of which can help prevent and alleviate both conditions.
- Over-the-counter remedies: Topical creams or ointments can provide temporary relief from pain and itching. For hemorrhoids, over-the-counter treatments like witch hazel or hydrocortisone creams may help reduce swelling.
- Warm baths: Soaking in a warm bath (also called a sitz bath) can help relieve pain and promote healing for both anal fissures and hemorrhoids.
How to Treat Anal Fissures
Over 90% of fissures will heal without surgery. Recommendations to help prevent recurrence are:
- Increasing the fiber intake in your diet. One of the best ways to increase fiber is by taking an over the counter fiber supplement.
- Drink plenty of water to help keep your stools soft. Some take stool softeners, but do not take them for a longer period of time than is suggested by the manufacturer.
- Warm sitz baths can help ease the pain. Sit in a few inches of warm water for 15 minutes two to three times a day.
- When you wipe, use a cotton ball or pad soaked in witch hazel. You can buy pre moistened wipes in your drug store.
- Often people with fissures are prescribed topical cortisone creams. In addition medications like Tylenol may be prescribed to help ease the pain.
For more severe cases or if symptoms don’t improve, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. In some cases, prescription medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery may be recommended.
Concluding Anal Fissure Vs Hemorrhoids
While anal fissures and hemorrhoids share some similarities, they are different conditions. Each have unique symptoms and require different treatment. Once you understand the difference between anal fissure and hemorrhoids it is easier to address and learn ways and learn about ways to help prevent the condition.
Though some conditions may seem embarrassing, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional to get the proper diagnosis and methods to treat it.